Pricing and availability
Average Price: $2,600
High-end/Boutique
$400
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
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Description
Unleash your inner shredder with the Ibanez Egen18, a masterfully crafted signature model designed in collaboration with virtuoso guitarist Herman Li of DragonForce. This solid body electric guitar is not just an instrument; it's a high-speed conduit for your most intense musical expressions. The Egen18 boasts a sleek mahogany body topped with exquisite flame maple, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and resonant sound quality.
The guitar’s 5-piece maple/walnut neck promises ultra-fast playability, catering to players who demand precision and speed. Additionally, the scalloped frets from the 21st to 24th positions provide enhanced control over your upper-register solos. Herman Li's signature touches are evident, from the unique upper-horn grip designed for comfort during high-energy performances, to the trio of pickups that deliver a spectrum of powerful tones. The two custom DiMarzio humbuckers and a discreet yet potent middle pickup offer versatility, allowing you to traverse effortlessly from searing leads to thick, rich chords.
For those who crave dynamic expression, the Edge-Zero tremolo bridge ensures stability and a wide range of pitch-altering fun without compromising tuning integrity. Whether you're on stage or in the studio, the Egen18 is equipped to bring your musical visions to life with clarity and confidence.
Key Features:
- Solid mahogany body with a striking flame maple top
- 5-piece maple/walnut neck for swift, comfortable play
- Scalloped frets from the 21st to 24th fret for enhanced upper-register control
- Edge-Zero tremolo bridge for superior tuning stability and expressive bending
- DiMarzio HLM Herman Li signature pickups for high-gain versatility
Product specs
| Brand | Ibanez |
| Model | EGEN18-DRG Herman Li Signature with Ebony Fretboard, EGEN18-DRG Herman Li Signature with Rosewood Fretboard, EGEN18-TVF Herman Li Signature with Rosewood Fretboard |
| Finish | Dragon's Blood, Transparent Violet Flat |
| Year | 2008 - 2019 |
| Made In | Japan |
| Categories | Solid Body Electric Guitars |
| Artist | Herman Li |
| Body Material | Mahogany |
| Body Shape | Double Cutaway |
| Body Type | Solid Body |
| Bridge/Tailpiece Type | Locking Tremolo Bridge |
| Color Family | Orange, Purple |
| Finish Features | Matching Headstock |
| Finish Style | Satin |
| Fretboard Material | Ebony, Rosewood |
| Model Family | Ibanez S |
| Model Sub-Family | Ibanez EGEN |
| Neck Construction | Bolt-On |
| Neck Material | Maple, Walnut |
| Number of Frets | 24 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Offset Body | Non-Offset Body |
| Pickup Configuration | HSH |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Scale Length | 25.5" |
| Series | Ibanez Artist Signature |
| Top Material | Maple |
| Wood Top Style | Flamed |
FAQs
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What is the neck profile of the Ibanez EGEN18?
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The Ibanez EGEN18 features a thin, fast Wizard III neck profile, making it ideal for shredding and fast playing styles. This neck is constructed from maple and walnut, providing stability and smooth playability.
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What type of pickups does the Ibanez EGEN18 have, and what tones can I expect?
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The Ibanez EGEN18 is equipped with an HSH pickup configuration, using DiMarzio pickups. This setup offers a versatile range of tones, from warm, full humbucker sounds to bright, articulate single-coil tones, suitable for rock and metal genres.
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Is the Ibanez EGEN18 suitable for advanced players?
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Yes, the Ibanez EGEN18 is designed with advanced players in mind, featuring a high-performance neck, locking tremolo bridge, and versatile pickup configuration, making it perfect for technical playing and live performances.
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Does the Ibanez EGEN18 come with a locking tremolo system?
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Yes, the Ibanez EGEN18 is equipped with a locking tremolo bridge, allowing for stable tuning even during aggressive tremolo use and dive-bombs.
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What is the body material of the Ibanez EGEN18, and how does it affect the sound?
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The body of the Ibanez EGEN18 is made from mahogany, which contributes to its warm, resonant tone with a solid low-end response, ideal for rock and metal music.
Videos
Musician's Friend
Ibanez Herman Li EGEN18 Signature Electric Guitar
Reviews
PROS
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Lightweight design makes it easy to handle during long performances
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DiMarzio pickups deliver exceptional sound quality and versatility
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Super fast neck enhances playability for quick and intricate solos
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High-quality craftsmanship ensures durability and longevity
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Thoughtful body design improves comfort and accessibility
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Offers a unique tonal range for personalized sound
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Excellent for musicians seeking a distinctive and professional appearance
CONS
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Limited availability since Ibanez stopped selling them
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Bridge adjustments can be challenging for some users
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ibanez Egen18.
Value and pricing
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It's suggested that Ibanez Prestige S or RG models deliver similar features for less money than the EGEN18, questioning the price premium for the scalloped fretboard.
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A recent purchase of the EGEN18 in Dragonsblood cost approximately $2300, including shipping, demonstrating some variability in market pricing.
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EGEN18 prices can vary significantly, with some owners purchasing for as low as $1200 in 2022, highlighting potential deals for patient buyers.
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Comparisons
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Some owners recommend exploring PRS Custom 24 or custom Carvin models as potential alternatives to the EGEN18, citing better personal satisfaction.
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Discontent with pickup rings is noted, with owners preferring direct mount humbuckers as seen on other Ibanez S series models.
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The EGEN18's unique pickup voicing offers higher output and extensive splitting options, distinct from standard Ibanez models.
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User experience
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One user expresses concern about not testing the guitar before buying and uncertainty about the wood's impact on playability and tone, highlighting a common buying hesitation.
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Owners celebrate the EGEN18's versatility, highlighting its adaptable switching systems and pickups, which some find spoiling compared to other guitars.
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A purple EGEN18 owner reports it has become their go-to guitar, indicating high satisfaction and frequent use.
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Use cases and applications
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Owners of the EGEN18 in Violet Purple report consistently high satisfaction, with some stating it as their preferred choice for frequent play.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 6 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
At 0:34 in this video, Herman Li of DragonForce is talking about his Ibanez Egen18.
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
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